What is the Economic Importance of the Freshwater Biome?

The freshwater biome is vital to life on Earth as we know it.

The freshwater biome is the main source of water for humans, necessary for our survival and most economic activities. Estimates of its global value range from $6.6 trillion per year to "infinite." The biome includes all freshwater lakes, rivers and wetlands.

Rivers

Rivers provide water for agriculture, industry and municipalities. They provide electricity, transportation and recreation, as well as habitat for numerous species. Rivers therefore affect every sector of the economy.

Lakes

Lakes and other non-flowing freshwater provide drinking water and water to irrigate crops, water golf courses and transport goods. Real estate on lakes sells at a premium price. Freshwater lakes also have substantial fisheries and draw millions of recreational visitors a year. Many industrial processes depend on water from lakes.

Wetlands

It is difficult to overestimate the importance of fresh water.

Wetlands absorb, store and clean water, preventing devastating flood damage to life and property. The natural filtering of water that occurs in wetlands saves considerable money on industrial water treatment. Wetlands are a rich habitat for many species and an important part of the recreation sector.

References

• University of California Museum of Paleontology: The Freshwater Biome
• "Nature": The Value of the World's Ecosystem Services and Natural Capital
• University of Southern California: Should a Price Be Put on the Goods and Services Provided by the World's Ecosystems?